On my visit to Strasbourg, I fell in love with Petite France, an area known by its half-timbered houses and web of canals.
Because of that, I want to show you the best things to see and do in this part of the city. Put on your walking shoes and let’s go on this adventure together!
Table of Contents
A Little Bit about Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the largest city and the capital of Alsace, a historical region characterized by colorful half-timbered houses, vineyards, and castles. The city is located close to the German border and, as a consequence, it has changed hands several times through history. Nowadays, Strasbourg is part of France but the German influence is felt in its cuisine, culture, and architecture.
To understand Strasbourg better, you should know the that the historical center of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located on an island in the middle of the River Ill. This area is known as the Grande Ile (Grand Island). The island is connected to other parts of the city by multiple bridges.
Strasbourg is one of the de facto capitals of the European Union and is home to the second largest university in France.
Where is Petite France?
Petite France (Little France) comprises the western part of the Grande Ile. During the middle ages, the tanners, millers, butchers and fishermen quarters were located there.
What makes the area famous? Well, at Petite France, the River Ill splits into fours canals. Those canals are lined with half-timbered houses painted in rainbow resembling colors. In addition, there are many narrow lanes, small plazas, and bridges. All those elements create a visually pleasing storybook environment.
If you are visiting Strasbourg, I recommend spending some time in Petite France. It may end up being your favorite part of the city!
Petite France Strasbourg – What to See
The only way to explore the area is by foot. In here, I am presenting you an easy to follow walking route. You can add or subtract sights as desired.
Before starting, let me clarify something. Many believe Petite France is only to the area around the canals. However, as I previously mentioned, Petite France occupies the western part of the Grand Ile and a piece of land located south of the island. My walking tour will include sights outside the canal area because they are part of Petite France.
I recommend starting your walk around the famous Ponts Couverts.
Ponts Couverts
Do you remember how many channels are in the area? Four, right?
The Ponts Couverts (Covered Bridges) span the four channels and are the remnants of a defensive structure consisting of three bridges and four towers. Don’t be fooled by the name. The bridges have not been covered since the 18th century.
Nowadays, the Ponts Couverts have been declared a historical monument and are one of the symbols of Strasbourg.
Barran Vauban
Across the Ponts Couverts, you are going to notice a long, white structure. The Barran Vauban was built to serve as a bridge, weir and defensive structure. Its mission was to act as a type of dam to raise the level of the river and flood the areas south of the city. The high waters would keep enemies away.
Today, the Barran Vauban serves as an art space. Its terrace is open to the public and affords formidable views of the Ponts Couverts, canals and half-timbered houses.
Quai de la Petite France
So, it is time to explore the canals!
Before that, along de Ponts Couverts, make sure to spot the house with a walkway covered in leafy plants. Does it look familiar? I bet you have seen pictures of it on Instagram more than once.
From the Ponts Couverts, take the Quai de la Petite France. This narrow way will put you face to face with the canal houses. This is an opportunity to take as many pictures as possible. You will be delighted by the bright yellows, pinks, and blues. Make sure to catch the houses reflected on the water.
Cross the Pont du Faisan and you are going to encounter several half-timbered houses. Turn right at Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes to reach the impressive Maison des Tanneurs, a typical Alsace house known for its choucroute garnie (sauerkraut served with sausages and cured meats) and other specialties.
From here, you can enjoy one of the emblematic views of Petite France (the Maison des Tanneurs, bridge and canal).
Place Benjamin Zix
This small plaza is a great spot to have breakfast or lunch while enjoying views of the canals. In my opinion, it is more convenient to stop by early. Remember this area is very popular and gets tons of foot traffic.
We had a typical French breakfast (juice, coffee, croissant, butter, jam) at one of the cute cafes in the plaza. That was quite an experience!
Rue de Dentelles
I am pretty sure you are not tired of seeing half-timbered houses at this point. How could you?
To continue your fairytale story, take the Rue de Dentelles, a slim street full of cafes, restaurants and gift shops. I do not know what was going on but it seems like everything on this street was colored pink (bingo for me!).
Pont Saint Martin
The Rue de Dentelles will end at the Rue du Pont Saint-Martin. Not sure how good your French is but, at this point, you may have figured out “pont” means bridge. This street will take you to the Saint Martin Bridge.
Super cuteness alert! You want to cross this bridge! It will take you to another of the emblematic views of Petite France. From the bridge, you are going to see the weir, lock and tons of half-timbered houses.
On the other side of the bridge, make sure to stop by Au Pont Saint Martin, a restaurant house on a structure covered in vines and leaves. I really liked the open-air terraces right over the water.
Rue des Moulins
For more charming houses, continue through the Rue des Moulins. This street is going to take you back to the canals and to the Ponts Couverts. Therefore, my walking tour surrounds the area.
Rue Finkwiller
At this point, you may move on to see other attractions in the city. If you are interested in reaching the cathedral area, you can reach it by foot while seeing more of Strasbourg’s unique architecture.
From the Pont Couverts, take Rue Finkwiller. My walk around here was a pure casualty but I enjoyed seeing the lovely buildings, narrow alleys and locals enjoying a café al fresco.
Place Saint Thomas
At one point, you are going to approach the Pont Saint Thomas. The bridge will take you to the Place Saint Thomas a quiet plaza full of locals. The pink Lutheran Church of Saint Thomas dominates the square.
From the plaza, you can take the Rue de Serruriers to reach the cathedral. As an option, you can continue walking along the river. I chose the second option and had a marvelous time admiring the city’s architecture, bridges and waterways.
If you are walking along the river, take the Rue des Grandes Arcades (watch for the Strasbourg Historic Museum) to move toward the center of the Grand Ile. This street will take you to Place Gutenberg (and you can turn right anytime to reach the cathedral). The Rue de Serruriers will take you to the plaza too.
Place Gutenberg
This plaza has a statue of Johannes Gutenberg, who lived in Strasbourg between 1434 and 1444.
Place Kebler
Continuing along Rue des Grandes Arcades, you are going to end up at Place Kebler, the largest square in the city. The plaza bears the name of Jean-Baptist Kebler, a general who served in the French Revolutionary Wars.
Even though this plaza is located at the historic center, the modern side of Strasbourg is displayed here. Luxury brands, technology companies (Apple, for example) and upscale services have a presence in the plaza. So, if shopping fits your mold, this is the place for you.
Other Sights
As you may have noticed, the Petite France area is quite extensive. I have highlighted some of the most prominent areas but there are other spots of interest in case you are interested in seeing more.
- Saint-Pierre-le-Vieux Church
- Aubette Palace (on Place Kebler)
- Tour de Bourreau (Museum)
- Caves Historiques des Hospices (hospital with wine cellars, believe it or not, cellars are open to the public)
- Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg
The following two museums are located outside Petite France boundaries but close enough to mention.
- Alsace Museum
- Strasbourg Historical Museum
Boat Trip
After seeing the city by foot, I recommend jumping into a boat! Yes, this is a great way to learn more about the city and cover more ground than possible by foot.
A company called Batorama offers 45-minute cruise around the Grand Ile and the New City (Neustadt). Each seat on the boat has an audio guide with commentary about the places you are seeing. Also, the boat will take you through the canals and explain how the gates and locks are used. You will see everything in action since the mechanism needs to function in order for the boat to navigate the area.
How to Reach Petite France
- From the train station (walking distance), take the Rue de Maire Kuss and once you reach the canal, turn right. The Ponts Couverts (starting point of the walking tours) are located nearby
- From other points in the city, take public transportation or a taxi to the Ponts Couverts
More of the Area
Feel free to check out my other post of the area (or places located nearby).
I hope you have enjoyed this beautiful part of Strasbourg. Let me know what you think in the comments section.
Have you visited the Petite France Strasbourg?
Pin me for later!
Lorelle Catalano says
The architecture is just stunning, I love that restaurant over the water covered in vines!
photo cache says
How charming! I’ve been wanting to see half-timbered houses and architecture; I suppose this is a good destination for them.
Carol says
Charming and quaint buildings, it would be a pleasure to walk there.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
Lovely photos – what a gorgeous place, and you’ve captured it so well!
Thanks for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2018/03/springtime-at-sarah-p-duke-gardens.html
Lady Fi says
Strasbourg is so picturesque! What wonderful shots.
Jim, Sydney, Australia says
Beautiful photos.
Mary (The World Is A Book) says
We were only in Strasbourg for a couple of hours on our way to Colmar and concentrared on the area around the cathedral. I would have loved to explore this area. Love those half-timbered buildings.
Mandy says
I’ve only been to Strasbourg once and it was just an overnighter on our way to Germany. After seeing your gorgeous images, I’m sure I will have to return and spend more time there. It looks beautiful!
beatravelling says
I’ve never heard of Petite France. It looks sooo lovely! #wanderfulwednesday
California Globetrotter says
Petite France is my favorite part of Strasbourg because of all the half-timbered houses which you have beautifully captured! #WanderfulWednedsday
Sara says
Beautiful photos. I love the mix of architectural influences! I would love to visit Strasbourg, particularly at Christmastime. It looks absolutely magical and straight out of a fairytale!!
Christine | The Journey of Christine says
Wanderlust, bucket list, take me there now! I have always wanted to visit Strasbourg! That restaurant covered in ivy and leaves is gorgeous! Can that be my house lol. This is a great post Ruth with gorgeous pictures!
Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld says
Now this is what I call charming! Those colourful houses on the water are just stunning. I can see why you liked it so much 🙂
Sharon Wagner says
What a charming place. It doesn’t even look real. More fairy tale. I’d love to stroll those streets.
Julie Whitmarsh says
Our youngest son went to Strasbourg a couple of years ago on a school trip & came back telling me that I would love it as it is so beautiful. I can see he was right & really must head up there at some point – I love walking around cities – you experience so much more – thanks #FarawayFiles
Rhonda Albom says
This area is so cute. Exactly what I would expect a French village to look like. However, sauerkraut and sausages are not what I would expect in France (must be the German contribution).
Wilbur says
It is easy to forget that you are in France whilst staying there. A beautiful city that you have captured excellently. The Wine Route is pretty special too! Wilbur. #farawayfilex
Sandra says
Petite France sounds so idyllic! Those timber-framed houses looks very German.
#TravelPhotoThursday
Kate and Kris says
I remember all about Alcace changing hands between France and Spain from my history lessons at school. Aren’t those buildings stunning. I love your photos of the reflections too.
Lisa says
That looks so fairytale like! Reminds me of Beauty & the Beast 😀
Sarah says
It’s such a beautifully recognizable place! I wanted to go here when I was living in France but I just didn’t have enough time!
The Travelling Sociologist says
The city looks very charming. I can imagine that just walking around the island and city all day would be a day well spent. And, goodness! – how that restaurant, Au Pont Saint Martin, just dips into the water like that taking one or two floors with it is just wild! #FlyAwayFriday
Sharon says
Your photos are fantastic! I’m hoping to get back to France in 2019 and visit some of the smaller places outside Paris. Pinned your post for planning! I didn’t know Guteberg lived here. I’ve seen one of his printed Bibles at the Huntington Library in San Marino.
Cherie Rose Martin says
Absolutely cannot get enough of the architecture. Such a charming place. I live in France (Paris) and need to make a point to get out to Petite France! Have heard nothing but wonderful things. #FlyAwayFriday
Nigel William says
Hi, Ruth! This is another amazing review from you! I really enjoyed reading it. It definitely looks like you`re stepping into fairytale ad soon as you arrive. Also, there is so much to see, something for everyone`s taste. I was wondering, do you want to come back and experience more of Petite France?
Birgit | Groove Is In The Heart says
The half-timbered houses, canals and bridges are so beautiful. Must be wonderful to explore this part of Strasbourg on foot!
Josy A says
Oooh Ruth, what gorgeous photos! This must be a stunning place to explore in the summer.
Plus, a mix of French and German cuisine sounds divine!!
I am really glad I found you through #FlyawayFriday
Deborah Regen says
A postcard-perfect view with each bridge crossed and every street entered, who could not be thoroughly charmed by this Petite France section of Strasbourg? I imagine it could be overwhelmed by tourists during the busy summer months, so I would prefer an early spring or perhaps mid-fall arrival if possible. Enjoyed reading your post along with your pretty pics as I do a bit of armchair travel this evening. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Kiara Gallop says
This looks like an absolutely delightful place! And looks like you were so lucky with the weather too 🙂
I really must explore more of France. I only live in the UK and so far have made it to Paris. Shameful!
Tanja/The Red Phone Box travels says
so many fairy-tale houses 🙂 #theweeklypostcard
Cynthia Mackintosh says
This city looks so quaint & beautiful! I’ve never been, but reminds me of Venice. This looks like it would be a romantic getaway to visit!
Michelle says
So charming. I could spend all day just roaming around taking photos! Like you, I love the reflection of the houses in the water! I’ll be saving your post for future reference!
Madhu says
I just love walking tours .and Petite looks like a beautiful place. Thanks for sharing
April says
Strasbourg looks like the ideal place to just amble and get lost – the architecture is a dream! Wonderful photos!
Anda says
Those little canals in France are so picturesque. Strasbourg seems like a perfect small town to roam around on a beautiful summer day. Colorful houses and narrow alleys, just my kind of place! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Corey | fifi + hop says
France has really been on my radar recently, exactly because of posts like these!! Strasbourg looks out of a fairytale. It’s the sort of town I always envisioned living in some day – picture perfect, quaint and charming. Pinning! Thanks for linking up with #farawayfiles
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
The architecture in the Alsace is so pretty – that mix of French and German really makes for some stunning villages. I visited Strasbourg several years ago and we found it a lovely city to walk around and visit – it is a great place for a day or two to explore! The canal area is really nice on a sunny day – nice memories of sitting outside and enjoying a cup of coffee there 😉
Urska says
What a great informative post! I haven’t been to Strassbourg yet, but I would love to visit. I was actually planning to visit in December last year to see and experience the Christmas markets and festivities, but I got ill and had to cancel my visit. #TheWeeklyPostcard
jill says
Beautiful! It looks like a little slice of “dream come true” world!
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says
It is almost too cute for words! I would be in love with this area, soooo chock full of fairy-tale charm. I have always had Strausborg on my list to explore, drawn to seeing a Christmas market there, but the flowered boxes and bright sunshine make it adorable in summer as well! Thanks for sharing with #FarawayFiles, Erin
budget jan says
I always thought this city was German but have read it is French. How interesting that it has changed several times. I love cities on the water and Strasbourg having it’s central district on an Island puts it firmly on my French travel list. Aren’t those buildings gorgeous.
Caity says
I love Strasbourg and you’ve captured its beauty so well! Such a lovely, charming city and you’ve shared a super helpful and comprehensive guide! #flyawayfriday
Staci @ The Voyageer says
So charming!! I have friends in Strasbourg who I am dying to visit. I will make sure to spend some time in this fairy tale neighborhood <3
Al says
What a beautiful city! I always think that Europe has such a style and history that America sometimes lacks.
Lady Fi says
It is so very picturesque and charming! Your photos are gorgeous!
Shona says
You had the perfect day for wandering this picturesque area. The German/ French amalgamation is certainly evident and I loved that vine-covered tiered restaurant. What a stunning setting to take in the views and fresh air. I’ll be checking out this corner of Strasbourg some day. 🙂
Bryna | Dotted Line Travels says
I’m a huge fan of canals (part of why I love Amsterdam so much!) so Strasbourg looks like a place I would enjoy. I love the canal houses and the architecture in general!
Angie (Feetdotravel) says
What an absolutely gorgeous place! As I’m from the UK, I am used to seeing half-timber buildings which is good, because I love them. They always look as if they have so much history to tell. Such a picturesque place to visit, and the vine/lead covered buildings are gorgeous; I love to see nature re-claiming it’s land lol #feetdotravel
Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says
Great walking tour through Petite France in Strasbourg. I enjoy walking tours to see the amazing picturesque buildings. Can not believe I missed this on my last visit to France but must include this the next time. Great photos! #feetdotravel
Kelleyn Rothaermel says
We loved it too! Went in January! Would love to go back when it is warmer!
Emmanuel says
Hello Ruth,
Some of us just couldn’t help than to continue to read and read this lovely post of yours detailing almost everything about Stradbourg and it’s really lovely.
With regards to your question, as to whether I have been there before or not? The answer is a big NO.
The only memory I can share of Strasbourg is their team beating PSG 2 goals to 1. Pardon me, I’m a football lover.
Janine Good says
What a beautiful place! The architecture is so quintessential European and I just love the carousel. Carousels bring out the child in me! Thanks for coming out on Fly Away Friday! Hope to see you this week!
Johlene Orton says
This is absolutely gorgeous Ruth!! Any area that has half-timbered houses and web of canals will be my kind of vacation.. it seems so dreamy!
farenexus nexus says
I just love walking tours .and Petite looks like a beautiful place. Thanks for sharing
farenexus nexus says
Charming and quaint buildings, it would be a pleasure to walk there.